Leonard Meyer Saraga

Leonard Meyer Saraga, 94, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026. Born on October 7, 1931, in Brooklyn, New York, Leonard lived a long, generous, and deeply principled life defined by devotion—to his family, his community, his Jewish faith, and to the values he believed in. A lifelong New York Yankees fan, he carried that loyalty with him throughout his life.

Leonard was married to the love of his life, Frieda, for an extraordinary 75 years, a partnership marked by unwavering loyalty, humor, and a shared commitment to creating a home filled with acceptance and warmth. Together they raised a family that was his greatest pride: Paula, Rubin (Vickie), Scott, Sharon (Louanne), and Marie (Mary).

He was a beloved grandfather to Ash (Ryan), Zachary (Jaycee), and Jake (Kylee), each of whom inherited pieces of his kindness, curiosity, and quiet strength.

Leonard was preceded in death by his son, Scott, and by his parents, Rubin and Anna, whose values of hard work, compassion, and integrity shaped the man he became.

A man of both conviction and compassion, Leonard helped establish PFLAG Jacksonville, offering support, advocacy, and community to countless families. His work there reflected his belief that every person deserves dignity, understanding, and love.

Leonard was also a dedicated and hardworking businessman. He owned and operated Plaza Western Wear, which later became Saraga’s, for more than 30 years, becoming a familiar and trusted presence in Jacksonville’s retail community. After closing the store, he continued working another 30 years at Target, where he was known for his reliability, warmth, and easy rapport with coworkers and customers alike.

Leonard’s life was defined not by accolades but by the steady, everyday ways he showed up for others. He listened without judgment, helped without hesitation, and loved without condition.

He will be remembered for his gentle humor, his steadfast integrity, and the quiet but powerful legacy he leaves behind in the family he cherished and the community he helped shape.

Leonard is survived by his devoted wife, Frieda; his children; his grandchildren; and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 10:30 am at New Center Memorial Park Cemetery located at 43rd and Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL.

Memorials in his name may be directed to the Scott Saraga PFLAG of Jacksonville Scholarship Fund, 6271 St. Augustine Road, Suite 24-1820, Jacksonville, FL 32217. pflagjax.org

May his memory be a blessing.